Here's Something Needed In D.C.: A New Bible Museum

Steve Green, the president of Hobby Lobby, has something new in store. And this time it's on Washington, D.C.'s National Mall.

According to McClatchyDC, construction has already begun on the Museum of the Bible — set to open in fall of 2017. The museum will be a treasure trove of biblical artifacts and historical documents, including the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Green's family has collected over 40,000 artifacts for the 430,000-square foot museum — one of the largest in the city upon completion — and since the $400 million project is not-for profit rather than funded by taxpayer dollars, it won't experience the same governmental influence of federal museums. But like the Smithsonian Institute, it will also be a center of scholarly research.

Green describes the museum, saying, “The Bible has had a huge impact on our world today — from culture and politics, to social and moral justice, to literature, art and music, and more. Our family has a passion for the Bible and we are excited to be part of a museum dedicated to sharing its impact, history and narrative with the world.”

Attractions at the site will include first editions of the King James Bible, papyrus fragments of the New Testament, and a rooftop biblical garden